1. 1/9 & 1/10 Journal: What was the Pax Romana? Name at least 4 contributions of the Roman Empire. Agenda: 1.Journal and Make-up work 2.Atlas- Height of Roman Empire 3.Christianity Notes 4.Spread of Christianity Worksheet 5.Finish Video if we have time 6.Homework: COMPLETE ANY WORK THAT YOU ARE MISSING!

2. Christianity

3. Origins Christianity began around the year 0 AD Has roots and evolved out of Judaism Monotheism (belief in ONE god)

4. Major Beliefs Monotheistic Jesus Christ (the Messiah) is the Son and incarnation of God. Life after death

5. Founder Jesus of Nazareth Many people call him the “Messiah” (savior).

6. Jesus’ nonviolent teachings and performing of miracles attracted many followers.

7. The Christian’s Holy Book Called the Bible, believed to be God’s word Two parts: Old Testament and New Testament

8. Old Testament Contains the five books of the Jewish Torah plus 35 other books. Books held stories about the Jewish people and foretold the coming of the Messiah Events in this section take place before the birth of Christ

9. New Testament Contains 27 books It contains stories about the life and teachings of Jesus. Early Christians wrote these books.

10. Holy Places Bethlehem – Birthplace of Jesus Jerusalem – Place of Jesus’ death Rome – Home of the Pope

11. After Jesus’ death (30 AD), some of his followers (apostles) spread Christianity throughout Europe.

12. Paul of Tarsus  an apostle that spread Christianity. Helped establish Christian communities.

13. Early Christian History The first Christians were a minority group who were persecuted because of their beliefs. They came in conflict with the polytheistic beliefs of the Romans. – Many Christians were not allowed citizenship rights. Some were exiled or murdered.

14. Emperor Diocletian and several others organized mass killings of Christians.

15. Many early Christian leaders were killed by non-Christians and became martyrs. – Martyr: someone who dies for their beliefs. Their deaths inspired people.

16. Early Christian History In the early years of the church, Christianity developed differently in different areas. Councils were held to establish early Christian doctrines.

17. Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity and passed the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which allowed religious toleration for Christians in the Roman Empire.

18. Christianity was later adopted as the official religion of the Roman Empire, replacing the pagan religions. – Pagan - non-Christian religions, usually polytheistic.

19. Pagan holidays were borrowed by Christians. – Christmas is celebrated around the time of the Winter Solstice (longest night of the year). – Easter (symbolizing the resurrection of Jesus) takes place in the spring (time of rebirth).

20. Christian churches were built on pagan holy sites or in pagan holy buildings. – Above is Emperor Diocletian’s palace turned into a church

21. Later Christian History The Christian church eventually became the major source of moral authority in Europe.